Working Title: Mineland Reclamation Specialist
Job Class: Mineland Reclamation Specialist
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID: 97085
Location: Hibbing
Telework Eligible : Yes - Up to 50% after completing probation.
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 09/19/2026
Closing Date: 10/12/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit: Lands and Minerals
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday-Friday
Travel Required : Yes - occasional overnights
Salary Range: $26.12 - $ 37.91/ hourly; $54,539 - 79,156 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit: 214 - MAPE (MN Association of Professional Employees)
FLSA Status: Exempt-Professional
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
The DNR is currently seeking a Mineland Reclamation Specialist in Hibbing, MN. This position exists to assist in inspecting, monitoring, evaluating, and providing direction to the state's mining industry in complying with the state's rules for mineland reclamation. Particular attention is directed at reviewing and administering Permits to Mine to ensure they are consistent with the rules relating to mineland reclamation. The position requires traversing rough terrain during site visits and fieldwork in inclement weather.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Assist in reviewing and evaluating applications for Permits to Mine, annual reports, and operating plans so they are consistent with the rules relating to mineland reclamation.
Aid in conducting field inspections to determine if mining companies are in compliance with the conditions of their Permit to Mine.
Assist in reviewing and evaluating environmental review documents to ensure that components related to mineland reclamation and closure are adequately addressed.
Aid in maintaining and updating databases, including GIS, for monitoring, documenting, and administering the mineland reclamation program.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis following successful completion of a probationary period and which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences (e.g., botany, forestry, agronomy), hydrology, geology, reclamation, soil sciences, environmental science or studies, environmental engineering, geologic engineering, civil engineering, mine engineering or related field.
One (1) year of professional experience in biological sciences (e.g., botany, forestry, agronomy), hydrology, geology, reclamation, soil sciences, environmental science or studies, environmental engineering, geologic engineering, civil engineering, mine engineering or related field.
Communication skills sufficient to communicate accurately and professionally, both orally and in writing with coworkers, regulated entities, other government and tribal agencies, and the public.
Analytical and organizational skills sufficient to review technical information, maintain accurate records, organize files and databases necessary to administer the mineland reclamation program records and complete work within established timelines
Computer skills sufficient to prepare technical correspondence, reports, maintain electronic records, and use Microsoft Office or comparable software.
Ability to conduct field inspections and monitoring activities in outdoor environments and over rough terrain, including under variable weather conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
Professional experience in mineland reclamation, such as reclamation planning, field monitoring and inspection, environmental review, revegetation assessment, environmental review, permitting or compliance monitoring.
Experience reviewing technical plans, reports, permit applications, or other regulatory documents for compliance with laws, rules, permits, or established regulatory standards.
Experience using databases or other information-management systems to maintain technical, regulatory, or natural-resource records.
Experience with GIS including ArcMap/ArcMap or other GIS Software and spatial data management.
Knowledge of Minnesota's mineland reclamation regulations and permitting, specifically Minnesota Rules Chapters 6130, 6131, or 6132.
Knowledge of mining operations and practices, particularly Minnesota's taconite/ferrous, non-ferrous or peat mining industry, or mine and process engineering principles.
Experience with Minnesota's environmental review process and understanding of the relationship between environmental review, permitting, and regulatory requirements.
Experience evaluating or documenting revegetation or reclamation success.
Experience working with regulated entities, consultants, or governmental agencies on environmental permitting, compliance, reclamation, or natural resource management.
Experience interpreting and applying statutes, rules, regulations, permits, or other regulatory requirements.
MSHA 24-hour New Miner Training.
Additional Requirements
This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record. Per DNR Fleet Policy, only those 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.
Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).
It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
Conflict of Interest Review
Criminal History Check
Education Verification
Employment Reference / Records Check
License / Certification Verification
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.
